Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa has called for heightened civic pride and responsibility among residents, emphasizing that poor waste disposal practices are hindering local councils’ efforts and posing environmental and health risks.
Nalumisa highlighted that maintaining clean communities is a collective responsibility, not just a duty of the municipal councils. “We must all take responsibility,” he stated, urging everyone from school officials to business owners and residents to actively participate in waste management.
Expressing frustration over non-compliance with rubbish collection schedules, which are disseminated through publications and various channels, the Minister noted that in some neighborhoods, waste collection occurs up to three times daily, yet issues with improper disposal persist. “People are disrespecting the collection schedules and coming up with their own disposal methods,” he remarked, deeming such behavior unacceptable.
He implored residents to adhere to designated times and locations for placing rubbish bins, which is crucial for the efficient operation of waste collection services. “We need your cooperation in putting your rubbish bins out at the times specified by the councils,” he urged.
Nalumisa also criticized the trend of individuals turning to social media to voice complaints about waste management issues, while neglecting their part in exacerbating the problem. “When people fail to adhere to basic responsibilities, they often resort to social media to complain, but many of these same individuals contribute to the issue through irresponsible actions,” he noted.
The Minister underlined that effective waste management is a fundamental civic responsibility and a matter of national pride. He insisted that it is essential for every citizen to take ownership of these basic responsibilities, stressing that councils cannot do it alone.
Nalumisa encouraged community members to respect public systems and each other, pointing out that cleaner towns and cities start with individual discipline and a sense of pride in one’s environment. “Let us all show civic responsibility and pride in our communities,” he concluded. “Taking care of our environment is a duty that belongs to everyone.”
This call to action serves as a reminder that collective efforts and personal accountability are vital in fostering cleaner and healthier communities.
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